From the Rector

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

When one hears the word "confession," one may immediately imagine courtroom drama or one of the many cinematic scenes that take place in and around confessionals in churches. There is also the term "confessionalism" which refers to religious parties which require full and unambiguous adherence to their group's teachings and beliefs. This dates to the 16th century with examples including the Augsburg confession and the Westminster confession, also the Thirty-nine Articles of Religion, which you can find in the prayer book beginning on page 867. The importance of confessionalism has waned in the Episcopal Church, as it has shifted emphasis to creed and covenant in the last 50 years or so.

However, there is yet another confession that the Church will observe this week: the Confession of St. Peter. This is a major prayer book feast since 1979 and has its biblical reference at Matthew 16:16 when Peter says, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." It is the confession above all denominational confessions, as it is shared by all Christians. Indeed, this feast day marks the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

Let us confess with our lips and with our lives that Jesus Christ is Lord, and work and pray that we all may be one, as he and the Father are one.

Blessings,
Father Rick